Our Story

The Rise and Fall of New Albion Brewing Led the Way for the American Craft Beer Revolution

New Albion Brewing

Jack & Renée’s Story

New Albion Ale® is the original craft beer—the brew that started it all. In 1976, my father, Jack McAuliffe, quietly started the American craft beer revolution when he opened the New Albion Brewing Company® in Sonoma, CA. He influenced, encouraged and inspired countless other American brewers, such as Jim Koch of Samuel Adams, Ken Grossman of Sierra Nevada, Stick Ware of Boulder Beer, and Sam Calagione of Dogfish Head.

I didn’t grow up with Jack, but in 2000, when I discovered he was my birthfather and what he was best known for doing, my first response was that I always knew there was beer in my blood! Jim Koch revived New Albion Ale with Jack in 2013, and many people urged me to keep it on store shelves. I’m very proud to bring back Jack’s beer with the brewing expertise of Platform Beer Company (Click HERE) in Cleveland, Ohio—brewed solely with American Cascade hops, this golden American Pale Ale has a distinct hop note and a subtle piney character that is as enjoyable today as it was when it was first introduced.

Cheers to my father for his pioneering spirit, and I hope you enjoy this living piece of craft beer history!